Federico Chiesa Breaks Silence on Liverpool Future as Arne Slot Delivers Crucial Response
Federico Chiesa has declared his determination to remain at Liverpool and compete for his position after scoring a vital goal in Friday's Premier League season opener.
The Italian winger arrived at Liverpool during the 2024 summer transfer window but struggled to secure regular playing time due to fitness concerns and inconsistent performances, leading to widespread speculation about a potential return to Serie A.
Despite ongoing transfer rumors, no move has materialized, and head coach Arne Slot brought Chiesa on as a substitute during Friday's clash against Bournemouth. The 27-year-old found the net in the closing stages to give Liverpool the lead, before Mohamed Salah's stoppage-time goal confirmed a tense 4–2 triumph.
Addressing speculation about his dissatisfaction following the match, Chiesa declared to reporters: "I'm extremely content at Liverpool! I will have discussions with the club but my desire is to remain here and compete to secure numerous titles."
Slot expressed satisfaction with Chiesa's public declaration of loyalty to Liverpool and confirmed that the winger continues to have a future at Anfield.
"While he remains with us, [Chiesa's destiny] is certainly at Liverpool and I see no indication that this will alter," Slot emphasized.
"He experienced difficulties last campaign preparing his physical condition and regrettably for him, he subsequently missed the Asian tour along with Joe Gomez. At 2–2 you require a striker. I introduced him and he produced the goods, which is always encouraging for your prospects at the club.
"The supporters chanted his name repeatedly last season and it's wonderful for him to reward their loyalty. [The reason supporters feel such affinity with Chiesa] is challenging for me to explain. While I am a supporter, I never stand on the Kop and don't create these chants.
"The only explanation I can offer is Federico possessed an impressive background, was an established player choosing to move from Italy to England, which isn't commonly seen. I'm unsure, perhaps it's also an appealing chant to perform, but then I likely don't acknowledge the recognition he merits."
Slot has previously expressed worries about insufficient attacking options in the Liverpool roster following the exits of both Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez. Beyond wanting to maintain his existing squad, the Dutch manager has publicly requested at least one additional new recruit, with Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak being the preferred target.